Man Jailed For Raping Woman In Her Own Home

A Norwich man who raped a woman in her own home has been jailed for 16 years.

Tobias Grayston, 26 and of Music House Lane, was sentenced at Norwich Crown Court today following a five-day trial which concluded on Friday 8 July. The jury heard how Grayston, who was known to the victim, contacted her via a messaging app claiming to be someone else she knew.

Grayston then used his knowledge of the victim to engage her in conversation and arranged to meet her in the early hours of Sunday 7 February. He convinced the victim to leave her address and meet elsewhere, but instead he went to her home and waited for her to return.

When the victim returned home, Grayston grabbed her as she entered her bedroom, initially restraining her by tying her up. She was later released before being raped and subjected to a number of sexual assaults.

The victim managed to persuade Grayston that she wouldn't tell anyone about what happened, including the police. He then left the address at which point she raised the alarm.

Supported by the police and staff from The Harbour Centre the victim bravely gave her account and assisted the police with their enquiries, enabling officers to arrest Grayston the same day. He refused to answer police questions beyond denying the offence and was subsequently remanded in custody until trial in July, during which the victim gave evidence. Grayston chose not to be cross examined in his own defence and was found guilty of rape by all 12 of the jury.

Grayston has been sentenced to 13 years in custody after which he will be released on licence for a further three years. He has also been placed on the sex offenders register for life.

Detective Constable Dave Sorrell, from the Rape Investigation Unit, said: ""This was a horrible case where the offender used social media and messaging apps to prey on his victim. I would like to commend her on her bravery in coming forward following her ordeal. I would also like to highlight the importance of being safe online and the potential dangers it can pose.

"Victims of rape should feel reassured, with the help The Harbour Centre, we have the necessary skills and resources to offer support throughout a case. We take every allegation of rape very seriously and will do everything within our powers to bring offenders to justice.”